Update

From the RPD:

The Richmond Police Department and VCU Police Department have conducted a death investigation after a body was found last night in the 700 block of West Franklin Street. Police officers responded at approximately 11:31 p.m. and discovered the body of Sara Prescott, 18, 710 W. Franklin St., lying on the ground near her residence.

The Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled her death a suicide. Prescott died of blunt force trauma as the result of a fall.

Police were called to the 700 block of W. Franklin Street (north of Monroe Park) at 11:30pm Sunday night after a female was found dead. VCU and Richmond Police are calling the death a suicide.

Original

John M. Bennet of VCU issued this email early this morning:

To the VCU Community:

It is with deep regret that I inform you that VCU and Richmond Police are investigating the death of a student late Sunday night, as the result of what appears to be a suicide. The student was found between Rhoads Hall and Pace Campus Ministry. Counselors are meeting with the student’s friends, and all students are encouraged to contact University Counseling Services with any concerns. Counselors can be reached at 828-6200 on the Monroe Park Campus and 828-3964 on the MCV Campus.

Our thoughts are with the student’s family and friends at this sad time.

Sincerely,

John M. Bennett
Senior Vice President, Finance and Administration

According to the Times-Dispatch, the name of the student has not been released as her relatives have yet to be contacted.

We’ll release more information as it becomes available.

Our thoughts go out to the student’s family and friends and the entire VCU community during this horrible time. This is just so sad.